Fibreglass, though commonly used in kayak construction due to its affordability, is inferior to carbon fibre and Kevlar.
It lacks the strength-to-weight ratio of carbon fibre, resulting in heavier, less rigid kayaks that are slower and less responsive.
Fibreglass is also more prone to cracking and damage under impact, unlike Kevlar, which excels in durability and abrasion resistance.
A common way to describe fibreglass is that it bruises and overtime provides less and less structure.
Despite its lower cost, fibreglass is often overpriced by manufacturers, offering poor value compared to the superior performance, strength, and longevity provided by carbon fibre and Kevlar.
For serious paddlers, investing in advanced materials is far more worthwhile.
There are a number of reasons with a product as complex as a kayak and all its components. A few are listed below.
Pigments of gel coat differ in weight to volume ratios and some colours require more gel coat be applied than others for better coverage and a great finish.
The weight ranges stated are the completed weight dependant on colour choices and addons. Sizes of seat, pedal choice, kits etc.
As with all handcrafted kayaks, minor variations in weight may occur.
Vinylester.
Vinylester resin is superior to polyester and polyurethane in kayak construction due to its enhanced durability, flexibility, and resistance to water and chemical degradation. Unlike polyester, vinylester provides better adhesion to fibres, reducing the likelihood of delamination and cracks. It also has higher impact resistance and flexibility than polyurethane, allowing for stronger, longer-lasting kayaks that perform better under stress and in harsh environments.
At Flow Kayaks, we don’t offer clear coat fuselage finishes because they tend to look untidy over time, are prone to UV damage, and are difficult to maintain.
Additionally, clear coats make it challenging to achieve a good appearance if repairs are ever needed, which is why we prioritise finishes that ensure both durability and ease of upkeep.
This ensures a longer life for your kayak and minimises the depreciation on your investment.
All of our carbon fibre, kevlar aramid and twaron hybrid fabrics are sourced from reputable, expert suppliers in NZ and made in UK and Germany.
What’s the turnaround time for a kayak if I order it today?
Generally, 3-5 weeks depending on the model, customisations and our schedule.
Please get in touch for a more accurate delivery date if ordered the day of the call.
As you can imagine, our schedule and outlook is updated regularly.
Yes. We have a transport partner able to deliver as far as Auckland and Dunedin but depends on the schedule.
If you’re in Australia or further afield please contact us
Yes you sure can! From Nose to Tail, Skeg to Rudder, Bucket to Seam. All composite parts and components are made in our factory to your vision.
Standard options are:
– All white fuselage and bucket
– 1 x Flow Standard colour seam tape, skeg, rudder, footplate and matching decals.
See our order form for more details
Custom:
Flow Standard colour nose, tail and bucket options or multiple colours on the ski.
Non-standard colours (get in touch for quotes and options)
Whole boat coloured or a combo of colours.
Please note due to UV and heat dark colours have limited conditions on warranty.
Yes and there’s $100 off a paddle when purchased with a Flow Kayaks Ski or Kayak
Absolutely, but may be difficult depending on your location. Please check the Demo page, contact us or check out our Distributors.
